Tuesday, September 11, 2007

Live and Learn Conference 2007

We just got back from the Live and Learn Conference down in Black Mountain, NC, and it was a total whirlwind blast from the very first day of tie-dying t-shirts with the Smith family to the last night of the dance fever party! So many people put forth so much energy and enthusiasm to make this year one of the best years yet. The funshop offerings are just phenomenal and get better every year, I think.

I love hosting the letterboxing funshop, and the best part of the whole thing is taking the letterbox when we leave and seeing all the wonderful stamps that people have made. Liz's egg drop funshop was a huge hit with my kiddos, and it was the only funshop Sam really wanted to attend. I'm so glad we caught it before leaving town, and it really wrapped up the week for us on a positive note.

One of our favorites was the belly dancing funshop and performance, and I love the photo of my Maryland crew! There were so many other terrific funshops that it's impossible to list them all. Seeing all the kids' faces light up when they accomplish something new and even consoling them as they stretch their abilities and come up disappointed is a priceless part of the living and learning that happens all week long at the conference.

The best part of the conference though are the connections we get to make with such amazing people from all over the world! Getting to meet folks that we've gotten to know over the year online is so cool, and there's never enough time to spend talking and connecting with each and every person. The glow that comes from hanging out with other unschoolers just can't be beat!

5 comments:

Babette said...

So they call them funshops? That is funny. Sound slike it was a great trip for all.

feministhomeschooler said...

The belly dancing picture is great! How fun!

Zany Mom said...

Couldn't take the time to go this year (we already used our vacation time). Maybe next year. Sounds like you all had a blast!

Dayna Martin said...

(((hugs))) Danielle!

I will always treasure our short, but special times together at the conference. You have such a great sense of humor and love for life.

I can't wait to spend more time with you in the future sweet friend..

Devin and Dakota just loved spending time with your family! They speak of them often.

My Mom recently called your Mom. It was cool that they connected so much at the conference. My Mom is even talking about flying over to stay with her sometime.

~Much Love, Dayna

Danielle said...

Thanks all for the comments—yes, it's a wonderful, whirlwind of fun.

Dayna, I've been meaning to email you...my mom was so pleased and excited to hear from your mom! She really had such a wonderful time hanging out with them—it was one of the high points of her trip.

We'd love to see you guys again. The kiddos have been building fairy houses here, and they remember their time with your kiddos so fondly.